“If You Want a Successful Works Council for Next Four Years in Germany, Act Now.”
In Germany, the works council (Betriebsrat) has significant co-determination rights, meaning they have a say in various aspects of the workplace. In his new podcast, HR Policy Global’s Senior Advisor, Alan Wild, delves into the upcoming German national works council elections set for early 2026. These important elections will decide who will represent employees in companies for the next four years.
HR Policy Global’s Take: for those companies who are dissatisfied with the current works council in Germany, it is a great opportunity to initiate changes, and for those who are content, maintaining stability is the key. Regardless, it’s a critical time to actively involve business leaders and front-line managers in the elections and concentrate on your employees. For more information, please join us at our webinar next week: German Works Council Elections 2026: What You Need to Know
Key Takeaways for Employers
Statutory Representation Frameworks: Statutory representation will be achieved through rights-based or union-led frameworks.
"Get the Right People on the Other Side of the Table”: It's important to avoid activist capture situation during elections, especially for new and first-time Works Councils.
Understand Election Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the requirements and thresholds for the upcoming 2026 Works Council elections to ensure compliance and preparedness.
Encourage Participation: Highlight the importance of employee participation in Works Council elections, as high participation ensures that the council truly represents the workforce's interests.
Managerial Involvement: Managers need to actively support and engage in the election process, making it clear that this is not just an HR election but one that requires managerial involvement.
Wenchao Dong
Senior Director and Leader, HR Policy Global, HR Policy Association
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